By Mbono Mdluli
MBABANE – Eswatini’s tourism sector made significant strides in 2022, contributing E623 million to the country’s GDP, a 19.4% increase from the previous year.
This was revealed by Minister of Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Jane Mkhonta-Simelane, during a tour of the Malolotja Reserve Campsite on December 11, 2024.
Key highlights include:
• Employment Impact: The sector accounted for 30.2% of total direct employment, with over 8,000 jobs in the accommodation industry.
• Recognition: Eswatini was named the most tourist-friendly country in Africa by The Travel in 2023.
Mkhonta-Simelane emphasized the importance of tourism as a source of livelihood and a driver of economic growth, calling for its continued development. She praised stakeholders—hoteliers, tour operators, guides, and artisans—for their contributions to Eswatini’s growing tourism appeal.
The minister commended locals for embracing domestic tourism and exploring Eswatini’s accommodation, outdoor activities, and dining options.
To bolster tourism further, Eswatini aligns with its National Development Plan 2023–2028, which prioritizes partnerships with the private sector and efficient trade logistics. Notably, the Triland Agreement, formed in 2009 between Eswatini, Mozambique, and Mpumalanga (South Africa), fosters joint investment and marketing opportunities.
Eswatini aims to achieve:
• E2 billion in tourism revenue.
• 2 million tourist arrivals by 2027.
• Increasing the average length of stay from 1.3 nights to 5 nights.
The minister expressed confidence that partnerships, such as the Triland Agreement, and initiatives like the Eswatini Familiarisation Tour would drive these targets, showcasing Eswatini’s tourism potential on a regional and global scale.
